Radiology X-Ray Technician Schools near Canaan CT 06018

How to Pick an Xray Tech Degree Program near Canaan Connecticut

Canaan CT x-ray tech internship programCongratulations on your decision to enroll in an x-ray tech school near Canaan CT so you can learn to be a radiologic technologist. And now that you have made a decision to go into the satisfying field of healthcare, exactly how do you tackle choosing the right school and program to ensure that you will receive the appropriate training to become a qualified professional? And because most states do mandate that x-ray technicians become licensed, based on where you subsequently work you may require preparation to pass a licensing examination. So it’s imperative that you investigate each of the colleges you are looking at in order to compare each program. A number of potential students begin by looking for technical schools or colleges that are within commuting distance of their homes. Next, they compare tuition and often gravitate toward the lowest cost. But while expense and location need to be taken into account, there are other critical qualifications also. For example, you should ask whether or not the radiology tech schools have earned accreditation, or if they offer internships. These questions and others you must ask the schools you are evaluating are provided later in this post. But first, let’s talk about what a radiology technician does and the credentials and training choices that are offered.

Radiology Tech Job Description

There are a number of professional designations for x-ray techs (technicians or technologists). They can also be referred to as radiologic technicians or technologists, radiographers or radiology techs. No matter what the name, each has the identical primary job function, which is to employ imaging machines to internally visualize patients for the objective of diagnosis and treatment. A number of radiologic technologists might also administer radiation therapy for treating cancer. Some choose to perform as generalists, while there are those that have chosen a specialization, for instance mammography. They can work in Canaan CT hospitals, clinics, family practices or outpatient diagnostic imaging centers. The imaging technologies that an X-Ray technologist might utilize include:

  • Traditional and specialized X-Rays
  • Computerized tomography (CT) or “CAT” scans
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Sonography or ultrasound
  • Fluoroscopy

Radiographers must care for their equipment plus routinely evaluate its performance and safety. They are additionally required to retain complete records of each of their diagnostic procedures. As Canaan CT medical practitioners, they are held to a high professional standard and code of conduct.

X-Ray Tech Degrees Available

x-ray machine in Canaan CTThe standard prerequisite for enrolling in a radiology tech school is to have earned a high school diploma or GED. Radiologic technologist students have the opportunity to earn either an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree, which is the most typical among techs, usually requires 18 months to two years to complete depending on the program and course load. A Bachelor’s Degree will take longer at up to 4 years to complete and is more comprehensive in scope. The majority of students select a degree major in Radiography, but there are additional similar majors that may be acceptable as well. One thing to consider is that Canaan CT radiographer colleges have a practical training or lab component as a component of their curriculum. It can typically be fulfilled by participating in an externship program which a large number of colleges offer through local hospitals and clinics in their area. After you have graduated from any of the degree programs, you must comply with any certification or licensing requirements in Connecticut or the state you will be practicing in as applicable.

X-ray Technician Certification and Licensing

Once you have graduated from an x-ray technician program, depending on the state where you will be working you may have to become licensed. Most states do mandate licensing, and their requirements vary so contact your state. Currently, all states that do mandate licensing will recognize The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam for the licensing application, but several accept additional options for testing also. Several states also require certification as part of the licensing process, otherwise it is voluntary. Having said that, numerous Canaan CT employers prefer to hire radiology techs that have earned certification so it may increase your career options to earn certification. ARRT’s certification program involves graduation from an approved program as well as a passing score on their rigorous exam. ARRT also demands re-certification every other year, which can be met with 24 credits of continuing ed, or by passing an examination.

Online X-Ray Technologist Classes

attending x-ray tech school online in Canaan 06018As a component of any degree program, x-ray tech schools will have clinical or lab training included in their course of study. This is the same for online degree programs. So even though you can still earn your online degree, a considerable portion of the training will be completed either in a school lab or in an externship off campus. Practical training is often carried out in local family practices, medical clinics or hospitals in sponsorship with the schools. But the online portion of the training can be attended in the privacy of your Canaan CT home. Students who keep working while obtaining their degree often discover that the online style of learning is much more convenient with their active schedules. Plus online programs are often more affordable than traditional options. In addition to reduced tuition, expenditures for study materials and commuting can be reduced as well. But just make certain that the online college you select is accredited (more on the benefits of accreditation later). So if you are motivated enough to learn with this less formalized type of training, then an online degree may be the ideal choice for you.

Questions to Ask Radiographer Schools

As soon as you have selected the kind of degree that you would like to obtain, you can initiate the process of locating and evaluating Canaan CT x-ray technician colleges. You will also need to decide if you want to attend online classes or commute to a local campus. If you choose the latter, then naturally the location of the school will be important. The cost of tuition and secondary expenses will be a material variable as well. But in addition to cost and location, what more should you factor in when evaluating colleges? Well, you should ask if the schools are accredited, and if they sponsor externship or internship programs. To help you uncover some of these essential details before you make your decision, we have put together a list of questions that you should ask the schools you are considering.

Are the Radiology Technician Programs Accredited? Most radiology tech colleges have earned some type of accreditation, whether regional or national. However, it’s still important to make sure that the school and program are accredited. Among the most highly regarded accrediting agencies in the field of radiology is the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Programs earning accreditation from the JRCERT have undergone a detailed examination of their teachers and course materials. If the school is online it can also earn accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. All accrediting agencies should be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. Along with ensuring a superior education, accreditation will also help in getting financial aid and student loans, which are frequently not available for non-accredited programs. Accreditation may also be a pre-requisite for licensing and certification as required. And many Canaan CT employers will only hire graduates of an accredited school for entry level openings.

Are Internship Programs Offered? Find out if the Connecticut xray technician schools you are interested in have relationships with regional hospitals or clinics for internship programs. Not only are internships a terrific manner to get practical experience in a clinical setting, they are also a way to fulfill the clinical training requirement for most programs. As a supplemental benefit, they can help graduates and students establish professional connections in the Canaan CT medical community and assist with job placement.

Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the radiographer programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Canaan CT healthcare employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.

Where is the College Located? For a lot of students, the school they choose will have to be within travelling distance of their Canaan CT home. Students who have opted to attend online classes naturally will not have to trouble themselves with the location of the campus. However, the availability of area internships will be of importance. Something to consider is that if you decide to enroll in a program that is out of state or perhaps out of your local area, you might have to pay a higher tuition. State colleges usually charge higher tuitions for out of state residents. And community colleges commonly charge a higher tuition for those students that don’t reside within their districts.

How Big are the Classes ? Unless you are the kind of person that likes to sit far in the back of the classroom or hide in the crowd, you will probably want a smaller class size. Smaller classes allow for more individual participation and one-on-one instruction. Ask the Canaan CT colleges you are researching what the average teacher to student ratio is for their classes. If practical you may prefer to monitor one or more classes before making your final determination. This will also give you an opportunity to talk with some of the instructors and students to get their perspectives regarding the x-ray technician program also.

Can the College Accommodate your Schedule? And finally you must verify that the x-ray tech  program you ultimately pick can furnish the class schedule you need. This is especially essential if you choose to continue working while attending school. If you must schedule evening or weekend classes in Canaan CT, make sure that they are available. If you can only attend part-time, find out if that is an alternative and how many courses or credit hours you would need to carry. Also, learn what the procedure is for making up any classes that you might miss because of work, illness or family emergencies.

Why Did You Want to Be a Radiologic Technologist?

When getting ready to interview for an X-Ray Tech position, it's important to review questions you could be asked. Among the things that interviewers typically ask radiographer prospects is "What drove you to pick radiography as a profession?". What the interviewer is attempting to learn is not merely the personal reasons you may have for being an Xray technician, but additionally what qualities and talents you possess that make you good at what you do. You will likely be asked questions pertaining primarily to radiography, as well as a certain number of standard interview questions, so you need to prepare some strategies about how you would like to respond to them. Given that there are so many variables that go into choosing a career, you can address this fundamental question in a multitude of ways. When formulating an answer, attempt to include the reasons the work appeals to you along with the abilities you possess that make you an excellent X-Ray tech and the leading candidate for the position. Don't make an effort to memorize an answer, but write down several concepts and anecdotes that pertain to your own strengths and experiences. Going over sample answers can assist you to formulate your own thoughts, and give you ideas of what to discuss to enthuse the interviewer.

Pick the Right X-Ray Tech Program near Canaan CT

Enrolling in the ideal radiology technician school is an important first step toward beginning a fulfilling new career providing diagnostic medical services to patients. The suitable radiologic technologist must be in good physical shape. X-Ray techs typically stand for the majority of the working day and position and at times lift the patient to get the proper image. Candidates must also show a capability to pay strict attention to detail and to comply with the safety guidelines designed to protect both the medical team and the patient. X-Ray technicians work very closely with patients, other technicians as well as the doctors and radiologists. Having interpersonal skills is a necessity in order to have a pleasant work environment and deliver the best possible care to patients. As we have discussed in this post, there are a number of questions that you should ask each college you are considering prior to making your final decision. This is just as true whether you enroll in an online school or drive to classes on campus. By asking the appropriate questions you can examine and compare each school so you can narrow down your choices before making your final choice. And with the appropriate education and your motivation to succeed, you can reach your goal to work as a radiologic technologist in Canaan CT.

Some Background on Canaan Connecticut

New Canaan, Connecticut

New Canaan /nuː ˈkeɪnən/ is a town in Fairfield County, Connecticut, United States, 12 miles (19 km) northeast of Greenwich, 36 miles (58 km) west of New Haven and 48 miles (77 km) northeast of New York City. The population was 19,738 according to the 2010 census.[1] In 2008 New Canaan had the highest median family income in the country.[2]

Considered part of Connecticut's Gold Coast, New Canaan is known for its excellent Connecticut public school system[3], its wide range of architecture from the Harvard Five modern homes to historic New England colonials and farms, as well as many stately mansions and tended estates, plus a signature town center with premiere shopping, classic boutiques, an elaborate display of lights for the Holidays.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 22.5 square miles (58 km2), of which 22.1 square miles (57 km2) is land and 0.3 square miles (0.78 km2), or 1.56%, is water. New Canaan is the only municipality on the Connecticut Panhandle that does not border the coast. Such proximity to New York City proved worthy of its own connection to the New Haven Railroad, being the only town to do so. New Canaan station and Talmadge Hill station are both on the New Canaan Branch of the New Haven Line, and transfer is possible in Stamford south to Manhattan. Many New Canaan residents commute to New York regularly, with travel time to Grand Central Terminal approximately 70 minutes. New Canaan is also heavily served by the historic Merritt Parkway, as the third municipality when driving to Connecticut from New York City.

The downtown area consists of many fine restaurants, an old Bow Tie Cinemas movie theater, library, the Victorian train station, antique shops, a book store, a saddlery boutique and various fine clothing and interior decorating shops. In addition to the many local boutiques and businesses, many national chains stores can be found in the downtown area, including Ralph Lauren and Ralph Lauren Children, Ann Taylor, J. McLaughlin, Papyrus, Vineyard Vines, Le Pain Quotidien, and Starbucks, among others. There are also several churches in town (Catholic and various Protestant denominations) as well as the historic Roger Sherman Inn, established in 1740. Most major banks and many wealth managements firms have a presence in New Canaan, including J.P Morgan, Merrill Lynch, Wells Fargo, UBS, Citibank and Bank of America, among others. Several hedge funds are also based in New Canaan.

The town is bounded on the south by Darien, on west by Stamford, on the east by Wilton, on the southeast by Norwalk and on the north by Lewisboro and Pound Ridge in Westchester County, New York.

 

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